Methods, compositions and uses relating thereto

ABSTRACT

A method of treating a material, the method comprising contacting the material with a composition comprising an alpha-substituted aldehyde.

The present invention relates to a method of treating a material, tocompositions for use in such methods and to uses relating thereto. Inparticular the present invention relates to a method of treating akeratinous material, especially hair, to provide a benefit to thematerial.

The appearance, condition and cleanliness of their hair is of greatsignificance to many people. As a result there is a vast array of haircare products available offering a wide range of benefits and containinga huge number of different components. However popular hair styleschange continually with fashion trends and technological developments inhair styling appliances means that there is a continuing need fordifferent and improved hair care compositions. Furthermore as we learnmore about the toxicity of certain chemicals and their environmentalimpact there is an increasing requirement to take these considerationsinto account when developing cosmetic products.

For example one previously used constituent of cosmetic hair carecompositions is formaldehyde. However formaldehyde is a suspectedcarcinogen and thus its use in cosmetic compositions is now strictlyregulated and highly undesirable.

The appearance, condition and cleanliness of textiles and fabricmaterials is also of considerable importance and the stressesencountered by these materials in the environments in which they areused may have a deleterious effect on them.

It is an aim of the present invention to provide means for enhancing atleast one property of a material.

According to a first aspect of the present invention there is provided amethod of treating a material, the method comprising contacting thematerial with a composition comprising an alpha-substituted aldehyde.

By alpha-substituted aldehyde we mean to refer to any aldehyde which issubstituted with a non-hydrogen group at the carbon atom adjacent to thecarbonyl group. Such compounds may be referred to herein asα-substituted aldehydes or 2-substituted aldehydes.

The present invention relates to a method of treating a material. Insome embodiments the material may be textile material. In suchembodiments the textile material suitably comprises wool and preferablycomprises wool as a major proportion thereof.

In preferred embodiments the material is a keratinous material. Morepreferably the material comprises keratinous fibres. Preferably thematerial is hair. The hair may be human or animal hair. In especiallypreferred embodiments the method of the present invention is a methodtreating human hair. Most preferably it is a method of treating humanhair growing on the head.

However it will be appreciated that the method of the present inventioncan also be used to treat hair that is not growing on the head, such asa wig or animal hair, for example wool.

The method of the present invention involves contacting the material,preferably hair, with a composition comprising an alpha-substitutedaldehyde.

According to a second aspect of the present invention there is provideda composition comprising an alpha-substituted aldehyde.

In preferred embodiments the method of the first aspect of the presentinvention involves contacting the material with the composition of thesecond aspect. Thus preferred features of the second aspect applyequally to the first aspect.

Preferred features of the first and second aspects of the invention willnow be described. Any feature may apply to any other aspect asappropriate.

The composition of the second aspect of the present invention comprisesan alpha-substituted aldehyde.

Any suitable alpha-substituted aldehyde may be included.

Suitable aldehydes for use herein have at least 2 carbon atoms.Preferably they have at least 3 carbon atoms.

Suitable aldehydes for use herein may have up to 36 carbon atoms,preferably up to 30 carbon atoms, more preferably up to 24 carbon atoms,preferably up to 20 carbon atom, for example up to 18 carbon atoms or upto 16 carbon atoms.

Some preferred aldehydes for use herein have from 3 to 20 carbon atoms,for example 3 to 16 carbon atoms.

Same preferred aldehydes for use herein have from 3 to 12 carbon atoms,for example 3 to 11 carbon atoms.

Some especially preferred aldehydes for use herein have from 3 to 9carbon atoms, more preferably from 3 to 8 carbon atoms.

Some other preferred aldehydes for use herein have from 8 to 16 carbonatoms, for example 10 to 14 carbon atoms.

In some preferred embodiments the alpha-substituted aldehyde containsonly one aldehyde functional group. In some embodiments thealpha-substituted aldehyde contains more than one, for example 2aldehyde functional groups.

The alpha-substituted aldehyde is suitably a compound of formula (I):

wherein X is selected from hydroxy, alkoxy, carboxy, alkylcarboxy,amino, nitro, mercapto, halo, keto, sulfoxy, alkyl, mercapto, amide,nitrile, isonitrile, ester and other carbonyl containing groups; Y isselected from hydrogen, hydroxy, alkoxy, carboxy, alkylcarboxy, amino,nitro, mercapto, halo, keto, sulfoxy, alkyl, mercapto, amide, nitrile,isonitrile, ester and other carbonyl containing groups; and R ishydrogen or an optionally substituted hydrocarbyl group having 1 to 36carbon atoms.

In preferred embodiments Y is selected from hydrogen and a halogen. WhenY is a halogen, X is suitably a halogen, for example X and Y may both befluorine. In preferred embodiments Y is hydrogen.

Preferably the alpha-substituted aldehyde is a compound of formula (II):

wherein X is selected from hydroxy, alkoxy, carboxy, alkylcarboxy,amino, nitro, mercapto, halo, keto, sulfoxy, alkyl, mercapto, amide,nitrile, isonitrile, ester and other carbonyl containing groups and R ishydrogen, CHO or an optionally substituted hydrocarbyl group having 1 to36 carbon atoms.

R may be hydrogen, CHO or an optionally substituted alkyl, alkenyl oraryl group having 1 to 30 carbon atoms, preferably 1 to 20 carbon atoms,more preferably 1 to 10 carbon atoms.

Suitably R may be hydrogen or an optionally substituted alkyl, alkenylor aryl group having 1 to 30 carbon atoms, preferably 1 to 20 carbonatoms, more preferably 1 to 10 carbon atoms.

In some embodiments R is CHO and the aldehyde is a malondialdehydederivative.

Preferably R is hydrogen or an optionally substituted alkyl or alkenylgroup having 1 to 30, preferably 1 to 20, suitably 1 to 10 carbon atoms.

In some embodiments R is an optionally substituted alkyl or alkenylgroup having 1 to 7, preferably 1 to 6 carbon atoms.

In some embodiments R is an optionally substituted alkyl or alkenylgroup having 8 to 14, preferably 8 to 12 carbon atoms.

R may be substituted with one or more substituents selected from keto,hydroxy, halo, carboxy, acyl, nitro, amino, mercapto, alkoxy, sulfoxy,ester, nitrile, isonitrile or amide. The carbon backbone may beinterrupted by one or more heteroatoms, for example one or more oxygen,nitrogen or sulfur atoms.

In some preferred embodiments R is an unsubstituted alkyl group having 1to 8, preferably 1 to 6 carbon atoms.

In preferred embodiments R is an unsubstituted alkyl group having 4 to16, preferably 8 to 12 carbon atoms.

R may be selected from hydroxy methylene, methyl, butyl, hexyl, octyl,decyl and dodecyl. These groups may be straight-chained or branched.Preferably they are straight-chained.

Suitably R is selected from hydrogen, hydroxymethylene, methyl, n-butyland n-hexyl.

R may be selected from methyl, n-butyl, n-hexyl n-octyl, n-decyl andn-dodecyl.

Preferably R is selected from methyl, n-butyl and n-hexyl.

Most preferably R is selected from n-butyl and n-hexyl.

In some preferred embodiments the aldehyde is an alpha-substitutedaliphatic aldehyde.

X is selected from hydroxy, alkoxy, carboxy, alkylcarboxy, amino, nitro,mercapto, halo, keto, sulfoxy, alkyl, mercapto, amide, nitrile,isonitrile, ester and other carbonyl containing groups.

In some preferred embodiments X is a group of formula OZ wherein Z is H,R¹, R³COR², R³CONHR², R³NHCOR², R³OCOR², or R³COOR² wherein each of R¹and R² is an optionally substituted hydrocarbyl group having 1 to 20carbon atoms, preferably 1 to 8 carbon atoms, preferably 1 to 6 carbonatoms and most preferably 1 to 4 carbon atoms; and R³ is a bond or analkylene group having 1 to 20 carbon atoms, preferably 1 to 8 carbonatoms, preferably 1 to 6 carbon atoms and most preferably 1 to 4 carbonatoms.

R¹ and R² are optionally substituted alkyl groups. Preferredsubstituents are hydroxy groups, especially terminal hydroxy groups.

Suitably R¹ and R²are alkyl groups, preferably C₁ to C₄ alkyl groups.

In some especially preferred embodiments Z is H or R¹ wherein R¹ is a C₁to C₄ alkyl group or a group of formula HO(CH₂)_(n) wherein n is 1 to 6,preferably 1 to 4, preferably 2 or 3.

In some preferred embodiments X is a halo group. Suitably X is F, Br orCl, preferably Br.

In some especially preferred embodiments X is selected from OH,O(CH₂)_(n)A, Cl, Br or F wherein n is from 1 to 6, preferably 1 to 4 andA is H or OH.

In some preferred embodiments X is HOCH₂CH₂ and R is hydrogen.

In some preferred embodiments X is Br and R is CHO.

In some most preferred embodiments X is OH and the aldehyde is a2-hydroxy aldehyde.

In some preferred embodiments X is OH and R is a C1 to C6 alkyl orhydroxyalkyl group.

The compound of formula (II) is an aldehyde which is substituted at the2 position. It may have one or more further substituents.

Suitable further substituents may be selected from a hydroxysubstituent, a further aldehyde group, a keto group, a carboxy group, anacyl group, a halo group, an alkoxy group, an alkyl group, a nitrogroup, an amino group, a sulfoxy group, a mercapto group, an amide, anester, a nitrile group or an isonitrile group.

Preferred halo substituents are chloro, fluoro, and bromo.

Preferred alkoxy substituents are methoxy, ethoxy, propoxy and butoxy,including isomers thereof.

Preferred alkyl substituents are C₁ to C₈ alkyl, preferably C₁ to C₆alkyl, including isomers thereof.

In some embodiments the alpha-substituted aldehyde may include a furtheraldehyde functional group. Suitably such further aldehyde groups may beα-substituted.

In preferred embodiments the aldehyde includes a hydrocarbon chain. Thisis suitably a chain with a carbon backbone. However compounds in whichthe carbon backbone is interrupted by one or more heteroatoms are alsowithin the scope of the invention. For example the carbon backbone maybe interrupted by one or more oxygen, sulphur or nitrogen molecules andthus the aldehyde may include an ether, a thioether, an amine or adisulfide moiety.

The aldehyde may be predominantly aliphatic or predominantly aromatic innature. Preferably the aldehyde is aliphatic. However it may include oneor more double bonds and/or one or more cyclic groups. It may bestraight-chain or branched.

Suitable alpha-substituted aldehydes for use herein include2-hydroxydecanal, 2-hydroxydodecanal, 2-hydroxytetradecanal,2-hydroxyhexanal, 2-hydroxyoctanal, 2-hydroxypropanal, glyceraldehyde,2-hydroxybutanal, bromomalonaldehyde, 2-(2-hydroxyethoxy)acetaldehyde,2-chloro octanal, 2-fluoro octanal and 2-bromo octanal.

Suitable alpha-substituted aldehydes for use herein include2-hydroxydecanal, 2-hydroxydodecanal, 2-hydroxytetradecanal,2-hydroxyhexanal, 2-hydroxyoctanal, 2-hydroxypropanal, 2-hydroxybutanal,bromomalonaldehyde, 2-(2-hydroxyethoxy)acetaldehyde, 2-chloro octanal,2-fluoro octanal and 2-bromo octanal.

Suitable alpha-substituted aldehydes for use herein include2-hydroxyhexanal, 2-hydroxyoctanal, 2-hydroxypropanal, glyceraldehyde,2-hydroxybutanal, bromomalonaldehyde, 2-(2-hydroxyethoxy)acetaldehyde,2-chloro octanal, 2-fluoro octanal and 2-bromo octanal.

Suitable alpha-substituted aldehydes for use herein include2-hydroxyhexanal, 2-hydroxyoctanal, 2-hydroxypropanal, 2-hydroxybutanal,bromomalonaldehyde, 2-(2-hydroxyethoxy)acetaldehyde, 2-chloro octanal,2-fluoro octanal and 2-bromo octanal.

Preferred alpha-substituted aldehydes for use herein include2-hydroxyhexanal, 2-hydroxyoctanal, 2-hydroxypropanal, glyceraldehyde,2-hydroxybutanal, bromomalonaldehyde and2-(2-hydroxyethoxy)acetaldehyde.

Preferred alpha-substituted aldehydes for use herein include2-hydroxyhexanal, 2-hydroxyoctanal, 2-hydroxypropanal, 2-hydroxybutanal,bromomalonaldehyde and 2-(2-hydroxyethoxy)acetaldehyde.

More preferred alpha-substituted aldehydes for use herein include2-hydroxyhexanal, 2-hydroxyoctanal, 2-hydroxypropanal andglyceraldehyde.

Most preferred alpha-substituted aldehydes for use herein are2-hydroxyhexanal, 2-hydroxyoctanal and 2-hydroxypropanal.

The composition may comprise an alpha-substituted aldehyde in the amountof up to 50 wt %, preferably up to 30 wt %, suitably up to 20 wt %,preferably up to 10 wt %, more preferably up to 5 wt %, for example upto 4 wt %, up to 3 wt % or up to 2.75 wt %.

In some embodiments the composition comprises from 0.1 to 10 wt % of analpha-substituted aldehyde, preferably from 0.5 to 5 wt %, suitably from0.5 to 3 wt %.

In some alternative embodiments the composition may comprise muchgreater concentrations of an alpha-substituted aldehyde, for examplefrom 20 to 100 wt %, preferably from 50 to 100 wt %, for example from 70to 100 wt % or from 90 to 100 wt %.

The composition of the second aspect may comprise a mixture of two ormore alpha-substituted aldehydes. In such embodiments the above amountsrefer to the total amount of all such compounds present in thecomposition.

In some embodiments the composition of the second aspect comprises amixture of two or more alpha-substituted aldehydes.

In some embodiments the composition of the second aspect comprises2-hydroxyoctanal and one or more further alpha-substituted aldehydes,for example one or more further hydroxy-substituted aldehydes.

In some embodiments the composition of the second aspect comprisesglyceraldehyde and one or more further alpha-substituted aldehydes, forexample one or more further hydroxy-substituted aldehydes.

In some embodiments the composition of the second aspect comprises2-hydroxyoctanal and glyceraldehyde. It may optionally comprise one ormore further alpha-substituted aldehydes.

In some embodiments the composition comprises less than 0.1 wt %glyceraldehyde, suitably less than 0.01 wt %. Suitably the compositiondoes not comprise glyceraldehyde.

In some embodiments the composition of the third aspect comprises afirst alpha-substituted aldehyde having less than 10 carbon atoms and asecond alpha-substituted aldehyde having 10 or more carbon atoms. It mayoptionally comprise one or more further alpha-substituted aldehydes. Forexample the composition of the third aspect may comprises a firstalpha-substituted aldehyde having 3 to 9 carbon atoms, preferably 3 to 8carbon atoms and a second alpha-substituted aldehyde having 10 to 18carbon atoms, preferably 10 to 16 carbon atoms, more preferably 10 to 14carbon atoms. It may optionally comprise one or more further alpha-substituted aldehydes.

In some embodiments the composition of the third aspect comprises one ormore alpha-substituted aldehydes selected from 2-hydroxydecanal,2-hydroxydodecanal and 2-hydroxytetradecanal and one or more furtheralpha-substituted aldehydes selected from 2-hydroxyhexanal,2-hydroxyoctanal, 2-hydroxypropanal, glyceraldehyde, 2-hydroxybutanal,bromomalonaldehyde and 2-(2-hydroxyethoxy)acetaldehyde.

In some embodiments the composition of the third aspect comprises one ormore alpha-substituted aldehydes selected from 2-hydroxydecanal,2-hydroxydodecanal and 2-hydroxytetradecanal and one or more furtheralpha-substituted aldehydes selected from 2-hydroxyhexanal,2-hydroxyoctanal, 2-hydroxypropanal 2-hydroxybutanal, bromomalonaldehydeand 2-(2-hydroxyethoxy)acetaldehyde.

In some embodiments the composition of the third aspect may comprise oneor more alpha-substituted aldehydes selected from 2-hydroxydecanal,2-hydroxydodecanal and 2-hydroxytetradecanal and one or more furtheralpha-substituted aldehydes selected from 2-hydroxyhexanal,2-hydroxyoctanal, 2-hydroxypropanal and glyceraldehyde.

In some embodiments the composition of the third aspect may comprise oneor more alpha-substituted aldehydes selected from 2-hydroxydecanal,2-hydroxydodecanal and 2-hydroxytetradecanal and one or more furtheralpha-substituted aldehydes selected from 2-hydroxyhexanal,2-hydroxyoctanal and 2-hydroxypropanal.

The composition of the present invention may be provided in any suitableform. It may be in the form of a gel, paste, cream or wax. It may be inthe form of a liquid composition. Such compositions may be in the formof a solution, dispersion or emulsion. It may be provided as a solidcomposition, for example as a powder or as a bar. In some embodiments aconcentrate composition to be diluted prior to use may be provided. Insome embodiments the composition of the second aspect may be part ofprecursor composition to be mixed with one or more further componentsprior to contact with the material.

The form and nature of the composition of the second aspect will dependon the intended use thereof.

In some embodiments the composition is a laundry detergent composition.In such embodiments the composition suitably comprises one or morefurther ingredients selected from builders, surfactants, chelatingagents, bleaches, optical brighteners, enzymes, fragrances and othersuch ingredients commonly found in laundry detergent compositions. Thecomposition may be a hand washing laundry detergent composition or anautomatic laundry detergent composition.

In especially preferred embodiments the composition is a hair carecomposition.

The method of the first aspect of the present invention preferablyprovides a benefit to the material treated. Suitably the method enhancesat least one property of the material that is treated according to themethod.

In preferred embodiments the method is a method of treating hair thatprovides a beneficial effect to the hair. Suitably it enhances at leastone property of the hair. Suitably the method of the first aspectinvolves contacting the hair with a composition of the second aspect.

The composition of the second aspect of the present invention ispreferably a hair benefit composition. Suitably it enhances at least oneproperty of the hair.

In some embodiments the composition and method of the present inventionmay provide a temporary change to a property of the hair, for example byproviding increased shine or gloss, or improved softness or combability.

A temporary change in the property of the hair may be due to thecomposition coating the surface of the hair but forming a weakinteraction such that the composition can be easily washed or brushedaway.

In some preferred embodiments the composition and method of the presentinvention may provide a longer lasting benefit to the hair, for examplea wash-durable benefit.

A longer lasting benefit to the hair may be achieved due to interactionof the hydroxyaldehyde molecules with the hair. Without wishing to bebound by theory it is believed that the aldehyde forms a Schiff basewith amino groups in the keratin fibres of the hair. The Schiff base canthen either go on to react with further amino groups in the hair to formcovalent cross links thereby giving permanency to the particular hairbenefit, and/or the alkyl or aryl, etc groups which are part of thehydroxy-substituted aldehyde compound bound as a Schiff base to aminogroups in the hair form hydrophobic bonds with each other to givepermanency to the particular hair benefit. This mechanism could apply toall of the benefits covered in this invention such as hair waving, hairstraightening, hair strengthening, hair protein retention, binding extraprotein to the hair, thermal durability, chemical resistance, UVstability, shine, softness and combability. To afford these benefits, itwill be appreciated that the hydroxy-substituted aldehyde compounds willoperate either by fully or partially penetrating to the core of the hair(cortex) and reacting with amino groups partially or throughout the hairfibre, and/or reacting with amino groups that are on/near the surface ofthe hair. In the latter case, the alkyl/aryl, etc groups of thehydroxy-substituted aldehyde compound will be covalently bound to thesurface of the hair fibre to afford benefits such as shine/gloss,protection, softness and combability.

The composition and method of the present invention may be useful inpermanent waving or straightening of the hair.

The composition and method of the present invention may improve thestrength of the hair.

The composition and method of the present invention may prevent orinhibit loss of protein from the hair and/or they may be used to bindextra protein to the hair.

The composition and method of the present invention may provideprotection to the hair against damage. For example the composition andmethod of the present invention may protect against damage from heat orsunlight.

In some embodiments the composition and method of the present inventionmay provide chemical resistance, for example protection against chlorineand other compounds found in swimming pools and the like.

Suitably the composition and method of the present invention may enhanceat least one property of hair selected from shine, gloss, softness,combability, strength, straightness, waviness, thermal durability and UVstability.

Preferably the invention provides one or more benefits selected fromincreased and/or permanent/semi-permanent gloss or shine, improvedand/or permanent/semi-permanent combability, improved and/orpermanent/semi-permanent strength, increased and/orpermanent/semi-permanent softness, reduced protein loss, improvedthermal durability, increased chemical resistance,permanent/semi-permanent waviness and and/or permanent/semi-permanentstraightness.

Suitably the composition comprises one or more diluents or carriers.Preferred diluents and carriers are cosmetically approved compounds andsuitable examples of these will be known to the person skilled in theart. Examples of suitable carriers include organic solvents (eg,hydrocarbon solvents (eg, isododecane), alcohols (eg, ethanol, propanoland butanol), propylene carbonate, benzyl alcohol, aliphatic or aromaticesters (eg, vegetable oils, isopropyl myristate, C12-15 alkyl benzoate),perfluorocarbon solvents, and silicone fluids.

In some embodiments the composition is an aqueous composition. Suitablywater is the major solvent present in the composition. In someembodiments water provides for at least 50 wt % of all solvents presentin the composition, preferably at least 60 wt %, more preferably atleast 70 wt %, suitably at least 80 wt %, for example at least 90 wt %or at least 95 wt %. In some embodiments one or more further watermiscible solvents may be present. Examples of suitable water misciblesolvents include monohydric and polyhydric alcohols, for exampleethanol, glycerol and isopropanol.

In some embodiments the composition of the present invention is notaqueous and the major diluent or carrier is an oleophilic material. Insuch embodiments the composition may comprise as a major solvent one ormore higher fatty alcohols, a mineral oil and/or a vegetable oil.

In some embodiments the composition is substantially aqueous but thealdehyde is dispersed within an oleophilic phase in which it is soluble.

In some embodiments the composition may consist essentially of one ormore alpha-substituted aldehydes and one more diluents or carriers. Inpreferred embodiments the composition comprises one or more furthercomponents. Suitable components are those typically used in personalcare compositions and are known to the person skilled in the art.

As detailed above the compositions of the present invention may comprisedifferent components depending on the intended use thereof. In someembodiments the composition may be used immediately after dyeing thehair. Alternatively the composition may be used one or more times as ahair treatment composition. In some embodiments it may be provided as acolour-loss prevention composition. Alternatively the composition may bein the form of shampoo, conditioner or hair styling product, for examplea serum, wax, mouse, gel or spray or any other hair treatment form thatcould be used to provide general hair care benefits. Compositions whichperform multiple functions, for example combined shampoo andconditioning compositions are also within the scope of the invention.

Suitably the composition comprises one or more additional componentsselected from surfactants, (including anionic, amphoteric, nonionic andcationic surfactants); conditioning agents (including quaternaryammonium compounds, cationic polymers, silicones, synthetic or naturaloils or resins, etc), fatty alcohols, electrolytes or other rheologymodifiers, opacifying/pearlising agents, scalp benefit agents,fragrances, dyes, UV filters, penetration enhancers (eg, propylenecarbonate, benzyl alcohol, etc), preservatives, antioxidants,emulsifiers, pH adjusting agents and buffers and styling polymers (eg,polyvinylpyrrolidone, etc).

In some embodiments the composition comprises a pH adjusting agent.

Suitable pH adjusting agents for use herein may include lactic acid,sodium hydroxide, sodium phosphate and salts and buffers thereof.

The pH of the composition will depend on the intended use thereof.However in some embodiments the composition has a pH of between 3 and 9,preferably between 3.5 and 8, more preferably between 4 and 7,preferably between 4 and 6. In some other embodiments the compositionhas a pH of between 8 and 13.

In some preferred embodiments the composition is a hair carecomposition. Suitable hair care compositions include shampoocompositions, conditioning compositions, hair styling compositions andhair permanent waving, relaxing or permanent straightening compositions,or hair colouring compositions.

Suitable further ingredients and amounts thereof to be used in hair carecompositions will be known to the person skilled in the art. Therelative ratios of the components and the formulation of suchcompositions would be within the competence of the skilled person.

Suitably the composition is a substantially aqueous composition,suitably comprising at least 50 wt % water, preferably at least 60 wt %,more preferably at least 70 wt %

Suitably the composition comprises one or more surfactants. For examplethe composition may comprise from 0.1 to 60 wt % surfactants, preferably1 to 30 wt %, suitably from 5 to 25 wt %.

Suitably the composition comprises one or more anionic surfactants. Forexample the composition may comprise from 0.1 to 60 wt % anionicsurfactants, preferably 1 to 30 wt %, suitably from 5 to 25 wt %.

In some embodiments the composition may comprise a quaternary ammoniumsalt, suitably in an amount of from 0.1 to 20 wt %, preferably 0.1 to 10wt %.

In some embodiments the composition further comprises a succinimidylester. Suitable compounds of this type are described in FR2937543.

Thus the present invention may provide a hair care compositioncomprising a hydroxy-substituted aldehyde and a succinimidyl ester.

In such embodiments the aldehyde is suitably present in an amount offrom 0.1 to 50 wt %, preferably 0.1 to 10 wt %, more preferably 0.5 to 5wt % and the succinimidyl ester is suitably present in an amount of from0.1 to 50 wt %, preferably 0.1 to 10 wt %, more preferably 0.5 to 5 wt%.

Preferably the succinimidyl ester is a compound of formula (I):

wherein R is an optionally substituted hydrocarbyl group having 5 to 36carbon atoms; and R¹ is hydrogen or a solubilising group.

Preferably R is an optionally substituted alkyl, alkenyl or aryl grouphaving 5 to 20 carbon atoms. More preferably R is selected from phenyland CH₃(CH₂)_(n) wherein n is 4 to 10.

Suitably R¹ is hydrogen or a sulfonate moiety, preferably hydrogen.

In some embodiments the composition further comprises a chelating agent.Preferred chelating agents are polycarboxylic acid-derived chelatingagents.

Thus the present invention may provide a hair care compositioncomprising a hydroxy-substituted aldehyde and a poly carboxylicacid-derived chelating agent.

In such embodiments the aldehyde is suitably present in an amount offrom 0.1 to 50 wt %, preferably 0.1 to 10 wt %, more preferably 0.5 to 5wt % and the chelating agent is suitably present in an amount of from0.1 to 50 wt %, preferably 0.1 to 10 wt %, more preferably 0.5 to 5 wt%.

Suitably the chelating agent is selected from glutamic acid,N,N-diacetic acid (GLDA), diethylene triamine pentaacetic acid (DTPA),imido disuccinic acid (IDS), ethylene diamine tetraacetic acid (EDTA),ethylene diamine disuccinic acid (EDDS), hydroxyethylethylenediaminetriacetic acid (HEDTA), citric acid and mixtures thereof.

In some preferred embodiments the chelating agent is selected from DTPA,GLDA, IDS and mixtures thereof. In some especially preferred embodimentsthe chelating agent is selected from DTPA, GLDA and mixtures thereof.

In some embodiments the composition further comprises an amine salt of acarboxylic acid. Preferred compounds of this type are amine salts of acarboxylic acid wherein the carboxylic acid has 4 to 10 carbon atoms.

Thus the present invention may provide a hair care compositioncomprising a hydroxy-substituted aldehyde and an amine salt of acarboxylic acid.

In such embodiments the aldehyde is suitably present in an amount offrom 0.1 to 50 wt %, preferably 0.1 to 10 wt %, more preferably 0.5 to 5wt % and the amine salt is suitably present in an amount of from 0.1 to50 wt %, preferably 0.1 to 10 wt %, more preferably 0.5 to 5 wt %.

Suitably the carboxylic acid has 4 to 10 carbon atoms, preferably 6 to 8carbon atoms.

Preferably the salt is of a secondary or tertiary alkylamine and/oralkanolamine or a substituted alkylene diamine. Triethanolamine anddiethanolamine are especially preferred.

Most preferably the salt is the triethanolamine or diethanolamine saltof n-hexanoic acid or n-octanoic acid.

In some embodiments the composition further comprises an amine salt of acarboxylic acid and a polycarboxylic acid derived chelating agent.

In some embodiments the composition further comprises an amine salt of acarboxylic acid, and a succinimidyl ester.

In some embodiments the composition further comprises a succinimidylester and a polycarboxylic acid derived chelating agent.

In some embodiments the composition further comprises an amine salt of acarboxylic acid, a succinimidyl ester and a polycarboxlic acid derivedchelating agent.

In some embodiments the composition may further comprise a crosslinkingagent comprising two or more reactive moieties and a linker. Compoundsof this type are described for example in US2015/034117 andUS2015/0034119.

In some embodiments the reactive moieties are activated carboxylic acidor sulfonic acid derivatives and the linkers are polyamino compoundswhich may form salts or covalent bonds with the reactive moieties.

In some embodiments the reactive moieties are maleic acid derivativesand the linker has two or more amino groups linked by alkylene oroxyalkylene chains. The crosslinking agent may be a maleimide or amaleic acid amine salt.

In some embodiments the reactive moieties are maleic acid ions and thelinker comprises quaternary ammonium ions linked by alkylene oroxyalkylene chains.

Some preferred crosslinking agents have the following structures:

The crosslinking agent comprising two or more reactive moieties and alinker may be present in an amount of from 0.1 to 30 wt %, preferably0.1 to 10 wt %, suitably 0.5 to 5 wt %.

In some embodiments the composition of the second aspect of the presentinvention is a shampoo composition.

Suitable shampoo compositions of the present invention may typicallycomprise 0.5 to 60 wt % of one or more anionic surfactants, preferably 1to 50 wt %, more preferably 5 to 30 wt %, for example 8 to 20 wt % or 8to 12 wt %; optionally from 0.1 to 30 wt % of amphoteric surfactants,preferably 1 to 15 wt %, for example 2 to 12 wt %; and optionally 0.1 to40 wt % of non-ionic surfactants, preferably 0.5 to 30 wt %, for example1 to 15 wt % or 2 to 12 wt %.

Shampoo compositions of the present invention may comprise one or moreingredients selected from anionic surfactants (eg. sodium laurethsulfate, sodium lauroyl methyl isethionate, sodium cocoyl methylisethionate, sodium alpha-olefin sulfonate, sodium lauryl sulfoacetate,sodium monoalkyl phosphates, sodium dialkyl phosphates, sodium methylcocoyl taurate), amphoteric surfactants (eg, cocamidopropyl betainesodium lauroamphacetate, cocamidopropylhydroxy sultaine and disodiumcocoamphodiacetate), foam boosters (eg. cocamide DEA, cocamide MEA,cocamide MIPA laureth-3), fatty alkyl alcohols (eg, cetyl alcohol,stearyl alcohol and behenyl alcohol) nonionic surfactants (eg,alkylpolyglucosides and alkyl ether ethoxylates), cationic polymers (eg,guar hydroxypropyl trimonium chloride, polyquatemium-10), silicones (eg,polydimethylsiloxanes such as dimethicone and dimethiconol), rheologymodifiers (eg, carbomer, PEG-150 distearate and xanthan gum), syntheticor natural oils or resins (eg, mineral oil or vegetable oils),anti-dandruff agents (eg, piroctone olamine, zinc pyrithione andsalicylic acid), styling agents (eg, polyisobutylene and polyvinylpyrollidone/vinyl acetate copolymer), moisturising agents (eg, panthenoland glycerol), non-polymeric conditioning agents (eg, quaternaryammonium compounds such as behentrimonium chloride and stearalkoniumchloride), opacifying/pearlising agents (eg, styrene/acrylates copolymerand ethylene glycol distearate), scalp benefit agents, fragrances,colouring agents, hair dyes, sunscreens, UV filters, preservatives,penetration enhancers (e.g. propylene carbonate, benzyl alcohol etc) anddiluents and carriers as defined herein.

Some preferred shampoo compositions of the present invention include 0.5to 60 wt % of one or more anionic surfactants (for example, sodiumlaureth sulfate, sodium lauroyl methyl isethionate, sodium cocoylisethionate, sodium alpha-olefin sulfonate, sodium lauryl sulfoacetate,sodium monoalkyl phosphates and sodium dialkyl phosphates); and 0 to 30wt % of amphoteric surfactants (for example, cocamidopropyl betaine,sodium lauroamphoacetate and cocamidopropylhydroxy sultaine).

In some embodiments the composition of the second aspect of the presentinvention is a conditioning composition.

Suitable conditioning compositions of the present invention maytypically comprise 0.1 to 20 wt % of one or more cationic surfactants,preferably 0.5 to 8 wt %, more preferably 1 to 4 wt %; and 0.1 to 20 wt% of one or more fatty alkyl alcohols, preferably 0.5 to 8 wt %, morepreferably 1 to 4 wt %; and optionally 0.1 to 20 wt % of one or morenon-ionic surfactants, preferably 0.5 to 8 wt %, more preferably 1 to 4wt %; and optionally 0.1 to 20 wt % of one or more cationic polymers,preferably 0.5 to 8 wt %, more preferably 1 to 4 wt %.

Conditioning compositions of the present invention including rinse-offand leave-on conditioners (including ‘hair masks’) and hair shine orappearence enhancing products, anti-frizz treatment serums and othertreatments, either leave-in or rinse-off, designed to be applied to thehair immediately after colouring or any time thereafter, andhair-tonics. Such compositions may comprise one or more furtheringredients selected from: cationic surfactants including mono and difatty alkyl tertiary amines and quaternary ammonium componds (eg, monoand di fatty alkyl quaternary ammonium compounds, such as cetrimoniumchloride, steartrimonium chloride and behentrimonium chloride), fattyalkyl alcohols (eg, cetyl alcohol, stearyl alcohol and behenyl alcohol),nonionic surfactants (eg, alkylpolyglucosides and alkyl etherethoxylates, eg. ceteareth-20), cationic polymers (eg, guarhydroxypropyl trimonium chloride, polyquaternium-10), silicones (eg,polydimethylsiloxanes such as dimethicone and dimethiconol), rheologymodifiers (eg, hydroxyethyl cellulose and polyquaternium-37),moisturising agents (eg, panthenol and glycerol), non-polymericconditioning agents (eg, quaternary ammonium compounds such asbehentrimonium chloride and stearalkonium chloride), scalp benefitagents, fragrances, colouring agents, hair dyes, sunscreens, UV filterspreservatives, penetration enhancers (eg, propylene carbonate, benzylalcohol, etc), and diluents and carriers as defined herein.

Some preferred conditioning compositions of the present inventioninclude 0.1 to 20 wt % of cationic surfactants (for example mono- anddi-fatty alkyl quaternary ammonium compounds, mono- and di-fatty alkyltertiary amines), 0.1% to 20 wt % of fatty alkyl alcohols; and 0.1% to20 wt % of non-ionic surfactants (for example ceteareth-20).

In some embodiments the composition of the second aspect of theinvention is a hair styling composition.

Suitable hair styling compositions of the present invention maytypically comprise from 0.1 to 40 wt % of one or more hair stylingpolymers, preferably from 0.1 to 30 wt %, more preferably from 0.5 to 10wt %.

Hair styling compositions of the present invention (including gels,mousses with and without propellant, hair sprays with and withoutpropellant, hair pomades, hair waxes, hair creams, hair brilliantinesand compositions designed to be used in conjunction with heated stylingappliances such as blow dryers, curling tongs, straightening irons, hotair hoods (as used for example in hair salons)) may comprise one or morefurther ingredients selected from: hair styling polymers (eg,polyvinylpyrrolidone, polyvinylpyrrolidone/vinyl acetate copolymers,octylacrylamide/acrylates/butylaminoethyl methacrylate copolymer, methylvinyl ether/maleic anhydride copolymers and polyethylene waxes),rheology modifiers (eg, carbomers, acrylates copolymers,hydroxethylcellulose, xanthan gum and polyquaternium-37), aminomethylpropanol, fatty alkyl alcohols (eg, cetyl alcohol, stearyl alcohol andbehenyl alcohol), ethanol, propyl alcohol, isopropyl alcohol,petrolatum, mineral oil, ozokerite, beeswax, carnauba wax, silicones(eg, polydimethylsiloxanes such as dimethicone and dimethiconol),polyethylene glycols, anionic surfactants (eg. sodium laureth sulfateand sodium lauroyl methyl isethionate), amphoteric surfactants (eg,cocamidopropyl betaine and disodium cocoamphodiacetate), nonionicsurfactants (eg, alkylpolyglucosides and alkyl ether ethoxylates),cationic polymers (eg, guar hydroxypropyl trimonium chloride,Polyquaternium-10), silicones (eg, polydimethylsiloxanes such asdimethicone and dimethiconol), moisturising agents (eg, panthenol andglycerol), non-polymeric conditioning agents (eg, quaternary ammoniumcompounds such as behentrimonium chloride and stearalkonium chloride),scalp benefit agents, fragrance, colouring agents, hair dyes,sunscreens, UV filters, preservatives, penetration enhancers (eg,propylene carbonate, benzyl alcohol, etc), and diluents and carriers asdefined herein.

Some preferred hair styling compositions of the present inventioninclude 0.1 to 40 wt % of one or more hair styling polymers/resins (forexample polyvinylpyrrolidone, polyvinylpyrrolidone/vinyl acetatecopolymers, octylacrylamide/acrylates/butylaminoethyl methacrylatecopolymer, methyl vinyl ether/maleic anhydride copolymers andpolyethylene waxes).

Those skilled in the art will appreciate that it is possible to conferone or more attributes of hair conditioning, shine etc., and hairstyling to the hair from a single product containing the appropriateingredients thus, compositions having such combinations of hair benefiteffects are also covered in the invention.

In some embodiments the composition of the second aspect is a hairpermanent waving composition.

Suitable hair permanent waving compositions of the present invention maytypically comprise 0.1 to 20 wt % of one or more reducing agents,preferably from 0.5 to 15 wt %, more preferably 3 to 12 wt %.

Some preferred hair permanent waving compositions of the presentinvention include 0.5 to 15 wt % of one or more reducing agents (forexample as thioglycolic acid, ammonium thioglycolate, thiolactic acid,cysteamine, cysteine, glycerol monothioglycolate, sodiumsulphite/bisulfite); alkalising agents (for example ammonia,monoethanolamine) in an amount suficient to adjust the pH of thereducing component to between pH 8-13. Hair permanent wavingcompositions are typically provided in a package with a secondcomposition comprising 0.5 to 10 wt % of one or more oxidising agents(for example hydrogen peroxide, sodium bromate, sodium percarbonate andsodium perborate) which are applied after the reducing agent compositionhas been applied, allowed to process and then rinsed off.

In some embodiments the composition of the second aspect of the presentinvention is a hair relaxing composition.

Hair relaxing compositions of the present invention may include one ormore ingredients selected from sodium hydroxide, lithium hydroxide,potassium hydroxide, calcium hydroxide and guanidine carbonate. Thesecomponents are suitably present in an amount of from 0.5 to 5 wt %.

Other types of permanent straightening compositions may include one ormore ingredients selected from formaldehyde, glycoxylic acid,glutaraldehyde and glyoxyloyl carbocysteine. These components aresuitably present in an amount of from 0.1 to 10 wt %.

The hair permanent waving, relaxing and permanent straighteningcompositions mentioned above may further include one or more additionalingredients selected from anionic surfactants (eg. sodium laurethsulfate and sodium lauroyl methyl isethionate), amphoteric surfactants(eg, cocamidopropyl betaine and disodium cocoamhodiacetate), quaternaryammonium componds (eg, cetrimonium chloride, steartrimonium chloride andbehentrimonium chloride), fatty alkyl alcohols (eg, cetyl alcohol,stearyl alcohol and behenyl alcohol), nonionic surfactants (eg,alkylpolyglucosides and alkyl ether ethoxylates), cationic polymers (eg,guar hydroxypropyl trimonium chloride, polyquaternium-10), silicones(eg, polydimethylsiloxanes such as dimethicone and dimethiconol),opacifying agents (eg, styrene acrylates copolymer), rheology modifiers(eg, hydroxyethyl cellulose and xathan gum), moisturising agents (eg,panthenol and glycerol), non-polymeric conditioning agents (eg,quaternary ammonium compounds such as behentrimonium chloride andstearalkonium chloride), fragrances, sunscreens, UV filters, colouringagents and diluents and carriers as defined herein.

In some embodiments the composition of the second aspect of the presentinvention is a hair colouring composition.

Hair colouring compositions may include a dye compound and/or mayinclude a dye precursor compound which forms an active dye in the hairin situ following admixture with an oxidising composition.

Oxidative hair colouring compositions of the present invention mayinclude one or more intermediates, for example p-phenylenediamine,N,N-bis(2-hydroxyethyl)-p-phenylenediamine, p-toluenediamine,p-aminophenol phenyl methyl pyrazolone, m-phenylenediamine, resorcinol,1-naphthol, 1-hydroxyethyl 4,5-diamino pyrazole and m-aminophenol. Theseintermediates can be present in any combination and ratios at a totalintermediate concentration of from 0.01% to 15%, depending upon thedesired shade. Such compositions typically further include one or morealkalising agents, for example ammonia, ammonium hydroxide, sodiumhydroxide and monoethanolamine. Developer compositions for oxidativedyeing include an oxidising agent, for example hydrogen peroxide, sodiumbromate, sodium percarbonate or sodium perborate. These are typicallypresent in an amount of from 0.1 to 30 wt %.

Direct-dye colour compositions of the present invention may include oneof more direct dyes for example from the classes ofnitrophenylenediamines (eg, 4-nitro-o-phenylenediamine, etc),nitroaminophenols (eg, 2-amino-4-nitrophenol, etc), aminoanthraquinones(eg, Disperse Red 11, etc). These are typically present in an amount of0.1 wt % to 20 wt %, depending on the desired shade.

In some preferred embodiments the composition of the present inventionis not a hair colouring composition. Preferably the compositioncomprises less than 0.1 wt %, preferably less than 0.01 wt % of dyecompounds and/or dye precursor compounds. Preferably the compositiondoes not comprise dye compounds and/or dye precursor compounds.Compounds which provide colour to the composition such as pigments andpearlescent agents may be present but suitably the composition does notinclude any compounds which may be used to dye hair.

In the method of the first aspect the material is contacted with acomposition comprising an alpha -substituted aldehyde.

The material, preferably hair, may be wet or dry when contacted with thecomposition.

Suitably the composition is applied to the material and spread acrossthe surface of the material. In preferred embodiments in which thematerial is hair the composition may be rubbed into the hair in themanner of a shampoo and/or it may be combed through the hair.

The composition of the present invention may be left on the material orit may be removed from the material. Suitably it may be rinsed usingwarm water.

In some embodiments the composition may be contacted with the material,spread throughout and then immediately removed.

Suitably the composition may be removed from the material by rinsing,preferably by using water.

In some embodiments the composition may be washed from the material bywashing with a detergent composition.

In some embodiments the composition may be mechanically removed from thematerial, for example by brushing.

In some embodiments the composition may be left on the material and notremoved until the material is washed during a normal cycle.

In some embodiments in which the material is hair, the composition maybe applied to the hair, spread throughout and rubbed into the hair, andthen rinsed with water, in the manner of a shampoo.

In some embodiments in which the material is hair, the composition maybe applied to the hair, spread throughout the hair (optionally withcombing), left on the hair for a short period and then rinsed from thehair with water, in the manner of a conditioner.

In some embodiments in which the material is hair, the composition maybe contacted with the hair and left on the hair in the manner of astyling product. The composition may be sprayed throughout the hair,rubbed throughout the hair, combed throughout the hair or otherwisespread through the hair in a manner known to those skilled in the art.

In embodiments in which the composition is left on the hair, it suitablyremains on the hair until the hair is next washed, although some of thecomposition may be brushed out or rubbed away during normal activity.

In the method of the present invention the composition is suitablycontacted with the material, preferably hair, at ambient temperature. Insome embodiments the composition may be contacted with the material at atemperature greater than the ambient temperature.

In some embodiments the composition may be contacted with the hair andthe hair carrying the compositions is then heated and/or manipulatedand/or dried. Thus the hair may be dried using a hairdryer orstraightened after the composition is applied.

The method of the first of the present invention may involve heating thehair. Such a heating step may involve commonly used heating techniquessuch as blow drying, or using tongs, straighteners or hoods etc.

The present invention may involve contacting the material with acomposition comprising an alpha-substituted aldehyde once or more thanonce.

The invention may be used on a regular basis, for example every timehair (or another material) is washed. Alternatively the invention may beused periodically on a less frequent basis, for example, every week orevery month.

It has been surprisingly found that the method of the present inventioncan significantly benefit the hair. This benefit may be a temporarybenefit, a permanent benefit or a semi-permanent benefit.

The method and composition of the present invention may benefit the hairby providing improved shine.

The method and composition of the present invention may benefit the hairby providing improved strength.

The method and composition of the present invention may benefit the hairby providing improved thermal protection.

The method and composition of the present invention may benefit the hairby providing permanent waving or straightening under mild conditions.

The method and composition of the present invention may benefit the hairby providing improved manageability and/or combability.

According to a third aspect of the present invention there is providedthe use of an alpha-substituted aldehyde to enhance at least oneproperty of hair. Preferred features of the third aspect are as definedin relation to the first and second aspects.

One especially preferred compound for use in the present invention is2-hydroxyoctanal.

According to a fourth aspect of the present invention there is providedthe compound of formula

According to a fifth aspect there is provided a method of preparing acompound of the fourth aspect.

The compound of the fifth aspect may be prepared by any suitable method.Such methods will be known to the person skilled in the art. Onesuitable method is described in example 1.

According to an seventh aspect of the present invention there isprovided a composition comprising a compound of the sixth aspect.

Preferably the composition is a hair care composition and preferredfeatures are as defined in relation to the second aspect.

The invention will now be further defined with reference to thefollowing non-limiting examples.

EXAMPLE 1

The hydroxy-substituted aldehyde compounds used in the present inventionwere prepared using the following method:

These are formed from corresponding 1,2 diol compounds by selectiveoxidation of the alpha alcohol. In a three necked flask, a coppercatalyst in a high temperature oil were weighed. The flask was thenfitted with side arm, a receiving flask and a water cooled condenser.The reaction was heated with stirring to the correct temperature under aflow of nitrogen and/or vacuum.

The required alcohol was added continuously at a constant rate. Theproduct was collected by distillation from the reaction mixture. Thevacuum or nitrogen was adjusted to ensure the aldehyde was distilledover rapidly to reduce the chance of further oxidation. The exactconditions depend on aldehyde being produced. A yield of greater than75% is typical.

EXAMPLE 2

The permanent/semi-permanent hair conditioning effect of a compositionaccording to the present invention was assessed as follows:

Method

1. 15.2 cm/3 g bleached straight hair tresses were pre-washed with astandard commercial non-conditioning shampoo and blow dried. Using aDia-Stron® MTT175 miniature tensile tester fitted with the combingaccessory, the ‘total combing work’ of each tress was measured.

2. 2 ml of an aqueous solution containing 1% w/w of 2-hydroxydodecanaland 1% w/w of SLES was applied to the hair tresses, combed through, andleft to stand for 5 minutes.

3. The hair tresses were flat ironed with a Tormaline® ceramic hot iron,passing it over the hair tresses slowly five times.

4. The hair tresses were washed and rinsed thoroughly to removenon-bound material from the hair.

5. The hair tresses were blow dried with combing.

6. Again, using a Dia-Stron® MTT175 miniature tensile tester fitted withthe combing accessory, the ‘total combing work’ of each treated hairtress was measured.

Results

After treatment of the tresses according to the invention, the ‘totalcombing work’ was reduced by 36.5 (±3.5)% (average of two hair tressreplicates) compared to the initial value before treatment. Thisindicates a permanent/semi-permanent hair conditioning effect wasconferred. This is believed to be due to reaction of the hair with the2-hydroxydodecanal.

EXAMPLE 3

The permanent/semi-permanent hair straightening effect of a compositionaccording to the present invention was assessed as follows:

Method

1. 15.2 cm/3 g bleached straight hair tresses were pre-washed with astandard commercial non-conditioning shampoo, combed, hung verticallyand allowed to air dry for six hours under ambient conditions, thentheir initial lengths were measured.

2. For the ‘treated’ hair tresses, 2 ml of an aqueous solutioncontaining 2% w/w of 2-hydroxyoctanal and 1% w/w of SLES was applied tothe hair tresses, combed through and left to stand for 5 minutes.

3. For the control hair tresses, 2 ml of an aqueous solution containing1 % w/w of SLES was applied to the hair tresses, combed through and leftto stand for 5 minutes.

4. The hair tresses were flat ironed with a Tormaline® ceramic hot iron,passing it over the tresses slowly five times.

5. The hair tresses were washed and rinsed thoroughly to removenon-bound material from the hair.

6. The hair tresses were combed straight, hung vertically, and allow toair dry for six hours under ambient conditions.

7. The final length of the hair tresses was measured.

8. The degree of straightening was calculated according to the followingequation:

${\% \mspace{14mu} {Straightening}}\; = {\frac{{L\; 2} - {L\; 1}}{{L\; 0} - {L\; 1}} \times 100\%}$Where: L 0 = Total  straightened  length  of  hair  tressL 1 = Initial  untreated  compressed  curly  length  of  tressL 2 = Final  length  of  trees  after  straightening, wash, and  air  dry.

Results

After treatment of the tresses according to the invention, the degree ofstraightening was 79.2 (±5.9)% (average of three hair tress replicates)compared to 21.2 (±9.5)% (average of three hair tress replicates) ofthat of the control tresses. This indicates a permanent/semi-permanenthair straightening effect was conferred. This is believed to be due toreaction of the hair with the 2-hydroxyoctanal.

1. A method of treating a material, the method comprising contacting thematerial with a composition comprising an alpha-substituted aldehyde. 2.The method according to claim 1 wherein the material is a keratinousmaterial.
 3. The method according to claim 2 wherein the material ishuman hair or animal hair.
 4. The method according to claim 3 whereinthe material is growing human hair or animal hair.
 5. A hair carecomposition comprising an alpha-substituted aldehyde.
 6. hair carecomposition according to claim 5 comprising two or more alphasubstituted aldehydes.
 7. The composition according to claim 5 whereinthe aldehyde is an α-hydroxy aldehyde.
 8. The composition according toclaim 5 wherein the aldehyde is selected from the group consisting of:2-hydroxypropanal, 2-hydroxyhexanal, 2-hydroxyoctanal,bromomalonaldlehyde, 2-(2-hydroxyethoxy)acetaldehyde and glyceraldehyde.9. The composition according to claim 8 wherein the aldehyde is selectedfrom the group consisting of: 2-hydroxypropanal, 2-hydroxyhexanal,2-hydroxyoctanal, bromomalonaldehyde and2-(2-hydroxyethoxy)acetaldehyde.
 10. The composition according to claim6 comprising a first alpha-substituted aldehyde having less than 10carbon atoms and a second alpha-substituted aldehyde having 10 or morecarbon atoms.
 11. The composition according to claim 10 wherein thesecond alpha-substituted aldehyde is selected from the group consistingof: 2-hydroxydecanal, 2-hydroxydodecanal and 2-hydroxytetradecanal. 12.The composition according to claim 10 wherein the firstalpha-substituted aldehyde is selected from the group consisting of:2-hydroxypropanal, 2-hydroxyhexanal, 2-hydroxyoctanal,bromomalonaldehyde and 2-(2-hydroxyethoxy)acetaldehyde and the secondalpha-substituted aldehyde is selected from the group consisting of:2-hydroxydecanal, 2-hydroxydodecanal and 2-hydroxytetradecanal.
 13. Thecomposition according to claim 5 wherein the composition comprising thealdehyde further comprises an amine salt of a carboxylic acid.
 14. Thecomposition according to claim 5 wherein the composition comprising thealdehyde further comprises a polycarboxylic acid derived chelatingagent.
 15. The composition according to claim 5 wherein the compositioncomprising the aldehyde further comprises a succinimidyl ester.
 16. Thecomposition according to claim 5 wherein the composition comprising thealdehyde further comprises a crosslinking agent comprising two or moremalonic acid derived reactive moieties and a linker having two or moreamino groups.
 17. The composition according to claim 5 wherein thecomposition is selected from the group consisting of: a shampoocomposition, a conditioning composition, a hair dyeing/colouringcomposition and a hair styling composition comprising a hair permanentwaving composition or a hair permanent straightening/relaxingcomposition.
 18. The composition according to claim 13 wherein thecomposition comprising the amine salt further comprises 1 to 30 wt % ofone or more surfactants.
 19. The method according to claim 3 whichprovides one or more benefits selected from the group consisting of:increased gloss or shine, improved combability, improved strength,increased softness, reduced protein loss, improved thermal durability,increased chemical resistance, increased waviness and increasedstraightness.
 20. The method according to claim 19 wherein the benefitmay be temporary, semi-permanent or permanent. 21.-25. (canceled)